Antwerp has announced the establishment of a fund aimed at providing support to young artists as they embark on their careers. The city has allocated a total of 200,000 euros for the years

2024 and 2025.

The creation of the "Fund for New Makers" follows the discontinuation of project grants for young artists by the council last year, a decision that sparked widespread criticism and led to weeks of protests within the cultural sector.

"The Fund for New Makers is designed as an accessible subsidy program that offers opportunities for the development of artistic endeavors through concrete projects," explains Nabilla Ait Daoud (N-VA), the cultural councilor. "It aims to foster the professional growth of artistic practice in Antwerp and facilitate greater involvement of arts organizations with emerging talents."

Aspiring artists can submit their project proposals until 31 October, with the intention of realizing them starting from 1 February 2024. The projects must be carried out in collaboration with existing cultural institutions in Antwerp, and the distribution of the funds will be decided collectively by the cultural centers. Photo by  Klaus with K, Wikimedia commons.